Following the visit of Germany’s junior hockey team, Oman’s national squad is set to arrive in Pakistan on April 6 for a four-match series against Pakistan’s junior team, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Hussain Bugti announced on Wednesday.
Bugti shared this news while addressing a press conference held to honor Pakistan hockey player Ammad Shakeel Butt, who was recently awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz on Pakistan Day.
Joined by Ammad, PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid, and newly appointed head coach Tahir Zaman, Bugti expressed pride in the recognition given to Ammad, calling it a significant achievement for Pakistan’s hockey community.
“The Oman team will play two matches each in Lahore and Islamabad,” he stated, thanking both the German and Oman hockey federations for their collaboration.
Ammad, speaking at the event, expressed his excitement over receiving the award and hoped that more hockey players would be recognized in the future. He also highlighted the benefits gained from the recent series against Germany’s junior team, emphasizing that the upcoming matches against Oman would provide further valuable experience for Pakistan’s players.
To address financial challenges, Bugti mentioned that the PHF has established a dedicated marketing department to improve the federation’s financial standing.
When asked about reports suggesting that Pakistan was not invited to this year’s Azlan Shah Cup due to outstanding dues, Mujahid dismissed the claims, stating, “These reports are based on assumptions. The PHF and the Malaysian Hockey Federation share a strong relationship. If there are any dues, we are prepared to settle them.”
Mujahid also revealed that PHF has developed a detailed plan for both senior and junior teams in preparation for upcoming international tournaments, including the World Cup qualifiers and the Junior World Cup and Asia Cup, both scheduled to take place in India this year.
“We are working to arrange at least 25 international matches for our senior team, both at home and abroad, and are in talks with three countries for potential tours to Pakistan,” he added.
Regarding Pakistan’s participation in tournaments held in India, Mujahid stated that the final decision would rest with the federal government.
Meanwhile, the training camp for the national junior team is set to begin in Lahore on April 4.
